Over the last 10 years there has been a revolution in the publishing industry, with a high volume of people turning away from hard copies of book to digital publication. With this increase of people turning to digital publications, there has been a massive increase in the amount of providers that is offering devices to view e-books on.

When creating an e-book, one of the main points to consider is what format I should create my e-book in and what devices is it compatible with?

I shall go over the top three formats being used by publishers of e-books to reach their target audience;

1.  The epub format (this is short for electronic publication). This is the main e-book format available. This type of format has gained in popularity due to the fact that it is designed for optimal e-book reading based on individual display devices. Examples of devices that support the epub format include; Apples iOS devices such as the iphone, ipod, ipod Touch and ipad, the Barnes and Noble Nook, the Sony Reader, Moon+Reader and WordPlayer on Android, and Adobe Digital Editions. Because the epub format is not supported by Kindle, the 3D Issue software also uses the file format .mobi to support Kindle (see Mobipocket below).

2.   The Mobipocket (.mobi). The Mobipocket e-book format is based on the Open ebook standard using XHTML. This e-book format is supported on many mobile devices including Windows, Symbian, Blackberry and Palm operating systems but does not support Android devices.

3.  The ereader. This is an e-book format which uses the pdb format used by many Palm Digital Media applications. Versions are available for iphone, Android, blackberry and Windows Mobile. This format is not used by Barnes and Noble in their Nook, which accounts for a high percentage of the e-reader market.

Make sure when you are creating an e-book, the software you are using will be supported on the devices your target audience is using. For me the best format is the epub because of the wide range of devices it is supported on.  See more of 3D Issue’s features here.

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Digital publishing incorporates an array of innovations that are considerably different from the traditional print medium.

This infographic illustrates what life may be like for 2 publishers, we have Pat the print publisher and Jeff the online publisher.

They both face an array of changes in the publishing environment at the minute. The most important advances to date have been made in recent months, with the introduction of apps. People are now adopting tablets and smartphones as their reading devices of choice.

In this infographic we look at some statistics in these sectors.  Online editions are now available for 65% of all U.S. magazines, so it is telling by these statistics that the move to digital is spreading at a rapid rate. Many publications are now digital only – while several are available in a print and also a digital version. Some print versions have stopped completely. It is all about knowing your reading audience and knowing what devices they tend to read on.  How these reading habits have evolved in the last few years has been phenomenal.

This infographic is based on findings from a study by www.mequoda.com a leading authority on digital trends, the statistics also come from results of research carried out by http://paidcontent.org

The key information we highlight in the infographic are statistics on:

•  New York times

•  The Guardian

•  Cosmopolitan Magazine

The findings may give rise to the question – is print dying out completely? If you are a print publisher – it might be time to try digital, see how your readers embrace the editions, and draw conclusions as to how digital publishing may work for you.

Creating an iPad Magazine is so simple and straightforward. All you need to do is follow a eight simple steps. First of all you need to research software that can create an iPad Magazine. Today we will use 3D Issue as an example.

Step 1: Purchase and Download 3D Issue Software

When you purchase the Professional version of 3D Issue software you can create an iPad Magazine that is interactive. It allows you to add weblinks, videos, audios, galleries and much more.

Step 2. Add Logo and Domains

Simply upload your company logo and the domains which you wish to host your magazine on.

Step 3: Import your PDFs

Chose which PDFs you wish to covert in order to create an iPad Magazine.

Step 4: Design and Create an iPad Magazine

This step is where all the creativity takes place. Go to the design tab here you can change the appearance of your magazine by adding some colour, changing the position of thumbnails and the navigation panel and add advertising in the Intro and Top Banner sections of the iPad Magazine.

Step 5: Adding interactivity when creating an iPad Magazine

Staying on the design tab you can add buttons and hotspots to your magazine. Such interactivity includes web links, email links, comments, audios, videos and galleries. Select what features you want end readers to see and use then create your table of contents.

Step 6: Select the formats you want your magazine to show on

Moving to the Output Tab you can then select what formats you want to create for, so not only will you create an iPad Magazine but you can also create magazines for online viewing, desktop reader, PC and Mac standalones, Facebook app, and android and iOS apps.

Step 7: Upload FTP Details

Staying on the Output tab you can upload your FTP details to automatically upload your magazine then click Build. Your magazine will spend a moment building and you will be presented with your digital magazine.

Step 8: Well done you just learned how to create an iPad Magazine.

Use the Url to share with friends, family, colleagues and potential customers.

See a Sample 3D Issue created here. 

What’s new in the world of digital publishing? Who’s doing what? Check out some of the top stories that are making the headlines this week.

Ebook Spending increases
E-books captured 11% of all book spending last year, up from 7% in 2011. Check out more and the latest findings from reports based on the latest e-book spending figures… Read Article >

Twitter Opens Advertising to All: Here’s How it Works
Get the low down on the new Twitter advertising move – what this means for magazine publishers and how the process works… Read Article >

How To Make Facebook Work For Your Business
Struggling to reach the potential of your Facebook business page and strategy? Fear not! Check out this expert guide from Forbes… Read Article >

6 Myths About Social Media Marketing
Inc.com provide the truth behind those myths that we all hear about. Does Twitter only work for celebrities and big brands? Is Google+ a waste of time? Find out.. Read Article >

Newspaper ABCs: Strong April for British newsstands
Check out the latest and full figures for ABC for April 2013.. Read Article >

The Numbers Are Clear: Mobile Is Taking Over The World
We know mobile is big…but how big? Check out some of the fascinating insights and stats that will enable you to understand this growing market…Read Article >

In the creation of any digital content it is generally a good idea to prepare. Remember “prior planning prevents poor performance”.

This is never more important than in the case of an agency-client relationship or B2B scenario where the sample or pitch comes to the fore. Why is a sample so important? What can we do to ensure that content prepared for persuasion hits the spot and how can we learn from what we have done before?

The creation of a sample for digital publishing allows a publisher to show their work in the best light possible. For that single moment of concentration from a potential client or customer – the sample has all their attention. This moment is vital as without creating the right impression we can lose sales and possibly even existing business.

It is said that we make up our minds in a matter of seconds – make them count.

Prior to the creation of samples for a website the publisher must consider their target market. Positioning of a publication is very relevant. Is your publication broad in appeal e.g. a New publication or very specific? Remember it is easier to succeed in a Niche than the mainstream (think Neutrogena hand cream) – pick your place and fulfil it.

Back catalogs of content may be a source of inspiration as well as a rule book – get feedback, listen to it and modify going forward. Listening to your team and your audience will ensure that your content stays fresh and relevant. Make your content worthwhile – make your audience yearn for it. This blog post from Seth Godin takes this view point from an e-mail marketing perspective.

Over the last 10 years, changing trends have seen a sharp rise in the number of readers turning to digital publications. Because of these changing trends, the Publishing houses have had to adapt and enter the digital age of publications.

According to the New York Times in 2010, www.amazon.com reported that for the first time in their history, the sales of digital publications outnumbered the sales of hardcover books by 143 digital copies to every 100 hardcover copies.

With the changing trends, the publishing house had to adapt. 2012 saw the publishing houses Holtzbrinck, Random House and Arvato release an ebook library on the market called Skoobe.

According to www.digitalbookworld.com, the rise of e-reading and ebooks has fundamentally changed the trade publishing business and companies like Penguin and Random House have been grappling with that change, migrating many of their revenues to digital publishing and building bigger international businesses. As a result of this, the year 2013 will see the merger of both these companies in to the biggest publishing house in the world, Penguin Random House. The companies will be merging their resources, primarily with in regards to the technology involved with digital publications.

This is not to say that digital publications will completely wipe out hardcover books, people still like to read hardback copies of publications. However there is more than the nostalgia of having a book in hand to take in to consideration when choosing a publication, people are getting more aware that the more trees cut down to make books and other publications, the increase in the carbon footprint by that person is the outcome.

We really are in the early stages of this new and exciting technology, who knows what will happen in the next 10 years…

Image thanks to the nice folks here. 

During the last few years publishers have had a major change in reader behaviour to deal with; changing trends in reading, device innovation and adoption and new revenue streams to note just a few. As the move to digital becomes more and more common for publishers to adopt, many are looking at the mainstream magazine and publication titles to see how these are performing.

Two magazines aimed at the male market are certainly ones to watch in digital success. In a recent report, GQ and Men’s Health Magazine were highlighted as the biggest digital edition circulations in in the final half of 2012, according to combined print and digital figures.

The digital version of Men’s Health sold on average over 12.5k digital copies per month, totalling 6% of its combined print and digital circulation.

Condé Nast’s GQ had the second-biggest digital circulation of those that reported, with over 11.5k totalling 9% of its total print and digital circulation.

Wired Magazine is another high profile publication that took digital by storm. According to a report, Wired’s digital edition contributed 50% of their total advertising revenue in the last quarter of 2012.

So what makes a digital magazine successful? The Guardian believe it is the added extra qualities available with digital “Rethinking the magazine as a unified “storehouse” of value is a nice starting point for brainstorming new ways for magazines to create pleasure and value for their audiences across different media. Top Gear Magazine is noted for this “The print product is to linger over, but the iPad edition and the app, with its galleries and high-definition videos, its exclusive offers and interactivity, is where the magazine’s strength now lies.”

As well as positive growth, experts have questioned price. With the rise in digital publications it has been reported that some of these publications are using this transition to raise the prices. Readwriteweb state “Asking buyers to pay more for something that costs you less to deliver is the kind of tactic that makes many subscribers feel exploited. It’s a head-scratcher, if not a subscription-canceler. Sure, magazine makers may still be coping with meaty legacy cost structures. But that’s not our problem, is it?”
Image thanks to the nice folks here.

New research by Adobe has shown that readership is rapidly growing due to the introduction of magazine applications on the iPad, Smart Phones and Tablets. Adobe’s DPS powers 75% of all magazine apps on the iPad and they have seen a rise in the use of digital publications from 300,000 per week to 2 million per week in just 18 months.

This trend is being observed throughout Australia, USA and the UK. Nick Bogaty, Marketing Director for Adobe’s Digital Publishing Suite (DPS) cited on www.itwire.com explained due to the popularity of smart devices subscribers for digital only versions is almost equal to the number that subscribe to print plus digital with readership in America doubling in just 6 months. “25% of all readers access magazines through their Smart Phones.”

Traditional print such as newspapers and magazines are becoming a thing of the past says Nick Bogaty. In the past advertiser’s battled for double page spreads in full colour. Since the introduction of magazine apps readers are opting for online reading on iPad instead of conventional print, forcing advertisers to use interactive advertisements to their advantage reaching new groups of customers.

Nick talked about Top gear magazine who moved from traditional print to digital editions. “In only three months the number of downloads went up 48%, and the number of paid downloads by 62%. More importantly, subscription revenues went up 165%, and ad revenues by 200%. That’s in three months!”

www.cision.com blog says other advantages of digital magazines range from increased reading time to saving money. “The overheads of running a digital publication are significantly lower. “The graph below shows the change in the “title” numbers for digital and print magazines between September 2007 and September 2012.

“Digital titles have increased 44% compared with print’s 11% decline”reinforcing what Nick Bogaty’s research that readership has doubled due to the use of magazine apps on ipad and other devices.

Image thanks to the nice folks here.

It is one of the key benefits of digital: Tracking. A digital edition can be fully tracked and analysed in terms of measuring performance against the original aims, objectives and goals set. Tracking is somewhat challenging for print editions, if a reader picks up a printed catalog   passes the copy on to a friend and that friend purchases from the digital catalog, the buyer journey and referral information is difficult to understand. At what point did the referrer pass the catalog  on to the friend? How long did the purchaser have the catalog  before making the decision to buy? If the publication was a digital version then this data would be easy to obtain.

These customer insights that can be gained from digital magazine analytics are what can help you build on and develop both the strengths and weaknesses of your digital edition.

Ensure when creating a digital edition that you have appropriate reader analytics set up and ready. Once you are set up with the tracking make a note of the key performance indicators of the digital edition, what data will be important to measure? How will you determine how successful the digital edition has been? For some success may be determined by the number of purchases from a digital brichure or catalog, for others it may be the percent of new readers and referral readers from a digital newsletter.

The amount of data that can be extracted from magazine reader analytics can be huge. So our advice:

•  Ensure the tracking is set up in your digital edition before it is released

•  Determine the KPIs (Key Performance Indicators for your digital edition

•  Act on the results and modify your future editions using these customer insights

•  Keep learning from these insights and adapt to change

What are the latest trends in digital publishing?

Our latest e-Book entitled ‘5 Digital publishing statistics for better decision making’ can provide you with key information on the latest trends based on updated statistics in digital publishing.

Ensure the success of your publications through a clear understanding of:

•  The end readers’ new reading habits

•  The effectiveness of social media and mobile platforms to reach target groups

•  The time-frame for web browsing activities in desktops, mobile devices and tablets

•  Publicity opportunities for businesses

This insightful resource provides you with a clear panorama of the digital publishing sector so that you can make the most of the new opportunities available and take your digital publication in the right direction. Gain a clear understanding of what works best in digital publishing to establish the right course of action for your publication.

If you are interested in discovering more effective ways to enhance your digital editions and fulfil your goals; this e-Book is definitely for you. Download ‘5 Digital publishing statistics for better decision making’ to access all the information you need before taking future decisions.

For more information on the latest trends and statistics in publishing sector, check out our trends and statistics section and contact us for any queries, comments or ideas at customerservices@3dissue.com

3D Issue provides you with the great opportunity to enhance your digital publications through a range of features; one of them is the possibility to archive previous editions.

Archiving can bring important benefits to your end readers such as:

-       Explore contents from previous editions

-       Getting more information on topics of interest

-       Linking to back editions and archives for research purposes

Moreover, your company gets the benefit of using contents of previous editions instead of being lost never to be viewed again. Previous editions can also be the source of inspiration to produce new content or provide readers with detailed background information on a particular topic of interest and important developments through time.

3D Issue software (Pro and Enterprise versions) enables your readers to browse through a graphical library of previous or related digital editions. Thus, this tool allows your readers on any publications to click on the archive button on the left hand side of their interface to be presented with a view library of the front covers of previous editions. For a step by step guide to add a digital archive, check out our video tutorial section, under the ‘spotlight features’ option and view a straight forward procedure to do this, from scratch.

For more information on other key features provided by 3D Issue software, check out these blog posts:

Raise your digital publication’s search engine rankings

No hosting fees; with 3D Issue you host the online edition

3 New Apps from 3D Issue you don’t want to miss

A quick look at a flip magazine

3D Issue software magazine program gains feedback from your readers

If you have any queries or comments on adding new features to enhance your digital editions, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

E-editions have become one of the most popular channels used by different industry sectors to reach the global audience. In our blog today, we will take a look at the food sector and how digital technologies have changed the way people get information on food recipes.

Mashable.com asserts that ‘a fresh generation of authors is creating richer, more interactive culinary experiences, serving up their digital recipes with a side of video tutorials, interactive navigation, audio tracks and more’

This article lists some cookbooks with unique digital features:

-       The digitally enhanced cookbook by Max and Eli Sussman includes step by step guides for cooking techniques, tutorial for important skills, behind the scenes audio interviews, photo shoots and music to enjoy with your food

-       The digital version of the Professional Chef known as ‘the bible for all chefs’ – Pro Chef provides 100 video tutorials, 175 diagrams, 750 photos, interactive navigation, and it allows users to make electronic notes and bookmark their favourite recipes

-       Wine Simplified uses slideshows and virtual tours to take readers on guided wine tastings throughout the book, it also provides video demos of wine-related skills and embedded links in the text making learning wine lingo easy

Mashable.com also reports that more people are increasingly adopting mobile technologies to ‘discover, create and share everyday recipes and meal planning’ according to Allrecipes.com’s  2013 Global Food Trends survey of over 7,000 cooks worldwide.

Some of the latest trends in the sector based on the survey’s findings are:

-       Searching recipes online: The survey found 63% of cooks are finding recipes using a wide range of mobile devices. Home cooks have made online recipe sites their number 1 resource

-       Video: Huge resource for finding recipes and meal ideas; with the portability of the iPad and other tablets, the number of cooks visiting video sites for meal inspiration went from 9% to 18%.

-       Check prices: More and more cooks (35%) use their mobile device to look up product pricing – that way they know where to go to get the best deals on their ingredients

-       Mobile recipes: The Food Trends report finds 26% of global cooks search for recipes on their mobile phones. More than ever, home cooks are using digital, mobile and social tools to plan, shop for and prepare new recipes

For more information on trends and statistics, visit our blog section.

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What is the future of online content?

According to this article, the majority of online content is expected to go behind paywalls in the near future. A study conducted by global pricing consultancy Simon – Kucher & Partners asserts that ‘90% of online content is likely to be held behind paywalls in three years’ time while 27% of media companies expect a significant shift in profit margin increase over the same period of time.

This shift to paywalls could put an end to the ‘free for all’ online culture and open up new opportunities for media companies. In the words of Mark Billige, UK managing director at Simon – Kucher & Partners ‘Media companies clearly see optimised content offers (print and online) as key success factors for the future, but these offers need to be priced correctly’.

The article explains that only 38% of media companies have a dedicated pricing function – the lowest across all the industries that participated in the survey. Nevertheless, The Telegraph Media Group has recently announced online UK paywall. The media company has revealed its two subscription models:

-       The Web Pack: This plan combines unlimited web access with their Smartphone Apps for £1.99 a month

-       The Full Digital Pack: This plan includes tablet editions for £9.99 a month

The article explains that The Daily Telegraph went online in 1994 and has an audience, exceeding 60 million a month – and from now on, the company will be also extending their web subscription model to UK readers.

Will their new business model be successful in the UK market?

Their success depends on whether or not the company’s offering engages the end readers and entices them to pay content consumption. As businesses shift to the subscription model, it is relevant to plan a course of action that ensures the successful adoption of paid content. For more information on how to market a digital magazine or e-Book, download our free guide and feel free to contact us at customerservices@3dissue.com

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In our blog today, we will take a look at consumer habits in the e-Book market. Simba Information, a market research firm specializing in publishing and media, has released the fifth edition of its Trade E-Book Publishing report series.  According to this report ‘The number of e-book users climbed in 2012 to pass 50 million adults but consumers habits have been changing’.

This report provides some interesting information on readers’ habits including how they use e-books, what devices are used, what extent they buy and how much money they spend.

The research firm reveals the following findings:

•  The gap between e-Book ‘users’ and e-Book ‘buyers’ grew even wider in 2012

•  The average amount of money spent by a given e-book buyer didn’t rise [between 2011 and 2012]

•  There was an increase in the percentage of adults who purchased a paperback title

•  The Children’s and Young Adults market continues to be rooted in print but both formats have shown strength in 2012

•  About 25% of adults are buying at least one Children’s/Young Adults print and about 5% buying at least one Children’s/Young Adults e-book

•  About 63% of smartphone owners, 48% of iPad owners and 40% of non-iPad tablet owners do not use e-books.

The e-Book market has developed to become one of the most popular platforms in recent years; however, the changing consumers’ habits have created a more complex market and getting consumers to value and engage with content, has become more challenging. In the words of Michael Norris, senior analyst of Simba Information’s Consumer Media & Technology division “any publisher who still believes that making their content available or accessible electronically is enough is kidding itself’.

This report also includes a two-year analysis of how much money e-book users spent on digital titles, a multi-year analysis of e-book pricing trends and what proportion of e-book users acquire digital books for free, and a full psychographic and demographic overviews. For more information on this report, visit www.simbainformation.com.

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Capturing the interest of your end readers does not have to be a complicated task – all you need to do is take some key points into account to give life to your PDF. Invest time to consider the following points before importing your PDF in the magazine software.

-       The platforms you intend to use: Take into consideration the spaces available in different devices and check if your content is suitable for smaller devices such as phones and tablets

-       Be unique, create engaging content: Interactive features work best when the content of your publication has the necessary elements to satisfy the needs of the end readers. Check out our free guide ‘10 BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING ONLINE MAGAZINES’ for tips on content creation – suitable for different platforms

-       Test your content: Download a free trial and add interactive features in your publication such as video, audio, web links and view your digital edition in different devices. Check out the ‘3 EASY STEPS TO CREATE AN ONLINE MAGAZINE’ for a step by step guide

Winning the hearts and minds of end readers can be achieved through the implementation of different techniques and Hearst Magazine can be a good example. Mashable.com reports on Hearst magazine efforts to reach iPad users through an innovative offering. This article asserts that iPad owners will be first in getting issues of Hearst (including Cosmopolitan, Food Network Magazine, Good Housekeeping and others)  before they are release in print or any other digital edition. According to Hearst president, David Carey ‘The success of its tablet editions relied heavily on promotion from digital storefronts’.

There are many ways to provide your audience with a fascinating reading experience – explore the wide range of tools available in digital publishing to give new life to your digital editions.

Drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com for more information.

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If you want to ensure the success of your digital publication; you cannot miss our latest e-Book entitled ‘7 mistakes to avoid when using online magazine software’. In this e-Book, you will find top tips to avoid failure and key points to use your online magazine software more effectively to:

•  Optimize your digital editions

•  Create engaging content

•  Capture the end readers’ attention through unique publications

•  Ensure your end readers can access your publications

Based on our own experience, some of the most common mistakes when using online magazine software are:

•  A design that suits all platforms

•  Disengaging content

•  Lack of originality

•  Excess loading times

•  Lack of creativity

•  A lack of responsive design

•  Publications that cannot be found by search engines

Our team has identified the most relevant points to take into consideration to avoid these mistakes and make the most from your magazine software – through simple and practical steps. Download our free guide today and get all the information you need to ensure the success of your digital magazine.

Check out our blog section for more information on tips and hints to enhance your digital edition.

Feel free to contact us for any queries, comments or ideas at customerservices@3dissue.com

Enjoy!

There is nothing to lose and lots to gain by trying a free trial of 3D Issue software.

What can be gained?

-       A first-hand experience using your own content; it is not the same to hear and see results achieved by other publishers. By trying your own content you can a have real perspective on the kind of benefits provided by the software and gain a better understanding of its functionality and performance to clarify doubts and reach to a conclusion before you purchase

-       A unique opportunity to try all the features needed to enhance your digital edition; you can access a wide range of interactive features by selecting the Professional version of 3D Issue software– so you can decide which features are essential to create more engaging publications and improve your end readers’ experience

-       Enough time to assess results by asking colleagues and friends opinions as well as viewing the publication in different devices: desktops, laptops, mobile devices and tablets. To view 3D Issue magazine samples in Flash and HTML5, click here. You can also contact customerservices@3dissue.com for any queries, comments or ideas

Once you have downloaded a free trial, 3D Issue provides you with the great opportunity to attend free webinars – online demonstration, so you can view the step by step procedure to create a digital edition enhanced by interactive features and viewable in a range of platforms.

Visit our 3D Issue category in the blog section to discover other key benefits provided by 3D Issue software such as self-hosting, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), Apps, languages available, interactive features, sharing options and other products provided by 3D Issue. You can all find straight to the point answers to the most frequently asked questions in our FAQs section.

Can a Flash publication be as effective as a HTML5 publication? According to Forbes.com, you have good reasons to tell the world your Flash publication is here- and explains why opposing HTML5 and Flash technologies is nonsense.

The article asserts that ‘99% of what’s been written has been about HTML5 replacing Flash; and this concept can prevent people from seeing the bigger picture’.

Some key facts regarding the role of both technologies in a website are listed in this article:

•  The only way to build a website is to use HTML pages, and then to embed Flash elements in them

•  Flash is a de facto standard for the publishing industry

•   HTML5 is a specification in working draft, scheduled for publication in 2014

•   Less than half of installed browsers are HTML5 compliant, with different levels of compliance

•  The video element in HTML5 is perfect for basic video players, but Flash and Silverlight are much more suitable for advanced video feature

Undoubtedly, Flash and HTML5 have their pros and cons and its use depends on the particular needs of a company. The good news is that with the 3D Issue software, you do not need to choose between HTML5 and Flash; you are free to create both Flash publications for desktops and laptops and HTML5 publications for mobile devices and tablets.

Visit our samples section and view Flash and HTML5 digital magazine samples. You can also attend a live demonstration where you can watch our team create a HTML5 and Flash publication from scratch – you can even ask questions along the way.

Feel free to drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com to clarify any doubts or share your ideas or comments on Flash and HTML5 publications.

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Innovation can take many forms and in digital publishing the possibility to introduce new features can be at your reach through the latest developments; one of the main ones is – interactive flip page software for web, mobile and tablet.

Our blog today analyses the case of the well-known women’s magazine Marie Claire providing a fully interactive experience for its readers. According to this article ‘The new interactive magazines go beyond advertisers’ QR codes that encourage readers to “scan for product demo – The magazine provides readers with new offerings that allows them to engage and be rewarded for it immediately’.

The article also reports that Marie Claire is also introducing a digital technique that makes the magazine more interactive – through the free Netpage App (available in iTunes).

The App will enable readers to:

• See videos and animation related to stories that makes the magazine as interactive as your iPad

• Make purchases directly from the magazine

• Clip any article or image and then save it or share it via email or Facebook or any form of social media

In the words of Mike Hofman, Executive Digital Director at Glamour, readers’ engagement can be improved as publishers learn what readers are interested in through quick feedbacks about the magazine’s performance.

Finding new ways to connect with your readers through the integration of new digital technologies can be a rewarding investment; download our free guide ‘Customizing your e-books and digital magazines – Top Tips’ to discover other effective ways to enhance your digital publications.

3D Issue software allows you to create editions for a range of platforms including mobile and tablets. Interactive features can certainly ensure an engaging digital experience for your readers. Check out these our blog section for more information on interactive features:

A PDF to Flash e-magazine can be an exciting interactive experience

Make digital publishers smile; know your tools and what you can build

Image thanks to the nice folks here. 

Creating a digital magazine can demand time and energy to ensure the best results.  So, it is necessary to take some measures to reaching your audience as effectively as possible. How can you ensure the target audience can access your digital editions?

There is a straightforward, easy way to do this; all you have to do is – Raise your digital publication’ search engine rankings. SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) can make your online publication as visible as possible.

This blog aims to put some relevant information on SEO in your hands to clarify any doubts. Check out this blog entitled ‘What do i need to know about SEO and keywords?’ and find out the key principles, top tips for ‘key words’ and the procedure to complete the SEO info section in the 3D Issue software – Check out this video tutorial ‘How to set up your new 3D Issue software’ for a step by step guide.

You can also download a free guide to ensure your digital publications are optimized.

In this e-Book you will find:

-       The importance of SEO

-       Advantages and difficulties

-       Tricks and tactics

As publishing through social networks has gained relevance; it is necessary to grasp the benefits you can achieve through this channel to increase the distribution of your publications – How to increase your search rank through using social media is explained in details in this insightful article by Mashable.com.

If you have any queries on SEO or the resource materials provided in this blog, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

An effective strategy to reaching your target digital is adding new elements such as links and rich media to enhance your e-magazine. In our blog today, we will provide you with some key resources on how to create links and rich media using the 3D Issue software.

To have a first-hand experience, you can download the trial version to use your own content; put the procedure into practice and see results to clarify any doubts.

3D Issue software provides an intuitive user interface separated into three tabs: Content, Design and Output. In the Design tab, you will find a range of the interactive features at your disposal – all you need is creativity and a desire to explore new features to create an engaging e-magazine.

In the Design tab, 3D Issue users have the possibility to:

•  Add interactive options for readers including notes and bookmarks
•  Embed movies and audio tracks
•  Use a company’s logo, background, colours

Click here to access the 3 easy steps to create an online magazine

Just click here to access these video tutorials. One of the most effective ways to learn how to create links and rich media in your magazine is viewing a step by step procedure on:

• How to customise the skin of your e-magazine
• How to integrate advertising into your digital edition
• How to add videos, audio, e-mail and web links in your e-magazine

You can also download our free guide ‘How to create an e-Magazine – Design Tab’ to get a detailed information on the rich media features available in the 3D Issue software. We hope the resource materials can assist you in the process of enhancing your digital editions, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com for any queries, comments or ideas.

Which devices are growing in demand in the current market?
Our blog today deals with the latest mobile devices, PC and laptop sales report. According to Forbes.com ‘The US mobile retails sales is predicted to reach $31B by 2017 and a significant portion of internet activity, including shopping will migrate to mobile devices’

The increasing popularity of mobile devices especially smartphones can be a door of new opportunities particularly for e-Businesses to reach a wider audience through an engaging edition suitable for this platform. Nevertheless, this article recommends retailers to take these key points into account:

• The total US mobile retail is still in a development stage and only a quarter of users have ever made purchases via their phones during 2012
• The checkout experience has been reported as one of the main problems ; consequently, consider adding an easy check out experience to facilitate the purchasing process and improve customers’ experience
• Most shoppers who access a retailer’s mobile presence get there by clicking on links from mobile search engines or from mobile emails.

On the hand, PC and laptop sales had an overall disappointing performance. Mashable.com asserts that ‘Worldwide PC shipment dropped 13.9% in the first quarter of the year’ – check out this article for more information.

Although, sales figures for PC and laptops might not be as positive as mobile devices; it is still early to predict what the future might bring as developers redouble efforts to improve the present product offerings. Get the latest trends and statistics in the digital publishing sector here.

If you have any queries, comments or ideas, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

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In our blog today we will take a look at one of the main attractions in terms of facilities for innovation and creativity in Europe. Could Brussels become the Next Silicon Valley? According to this report, a facility called The Egg in Brussels has a great potential to become the top spot to experience the latest technological developments.  In the words of the facility’s director, Alain Heureax, ‘this space is a nest of communications, creativity and collaboration’.

The place has evolved from media and marketing in 2003 to arts and innovation at the present time and the future seems promising as further plans for the infrastructure are being made. The facility provides visitors with a unique experience through a physical space that reflects the power of art, expression, innovation, and risk.

What kind of benefits can be expected through this project?

This effort to support creativity can certainly provide the necessary tools to foster innovation in Europe. According to Alain Heureax ‘Europe’s role as a center of innovation has changed in the past from a leader to a follower and there is a need to constantly innovate and to create an infrastructure to support creative ideas’.

Will the next technological boom come from Europe?

Creativity and innovation are key ingredients for new developments and adequate resources can certainly result in the improvement of product offerings and even the introduction of new ones. This article asserts that this innovation centre can be considered as a cornerstone of the new and growing Europe; so we can expect to welcome innovative technological developments in a near future. Likewise, innovation can result in the development of new tools in digital publishing sector. For more information on the latest trends and statistics, visit our blog section.

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3D Issue puts the best marketing insights for reaching your end readers in your hands! Our free guide ‘5 Best Marketing Practice for reaching your Target Audience’ can provide you with top tips to ensure the success of your online marketing.

If you have been searching for effective strategies to build up a meaningful relationship with your readers and create engaging contents; this e-Book is for you.

Download ‘5 Best Marketing Practice for reaching your Target Audience’ today and access these practical marketing approaches to:

•  Identify the most suitable digital channels for your marketing campaigns

•  Establish the best marketing strategy for your company

•  Make the most from your own existing content

•  Implement a strategy to capture the interest of your end readers

Get all the information you need to win the hearts and minds of your target audience through the topics covered in this insightful guide:

•  Discover the benefits of implementing digital marketing strategies
•  Be aware of the end readers’ needs and wants
•  Establish the best marketing strategies to reach the target audience
•  Explore digital channels for a successful marketing campaign
•  Make the most from content marketing campaign
For more information, check out these blogs:

3 Easy to Implement Content Marketing Ideas

Business online magazine reaches its customers and employees digitally

Feel free to contact us for any queries, comments or ideas at customerservices@3dissue.com  Enjoy!

Self-hosting can benefit your company in many other ways including:

•  The possibility to reduce cost as you can select a hosting provider  based on your budget and the long term objectives

•  To introduce new features or make the necessary changes in your publication at you own convenience

•  Integrating publicity to promote product offerings or advertisers and implement your own marketing strategies – you can have full control to take the publication in the right direction

For more information on self-hosting, check out this blog post entitled ‘The advantages of self-hosting digital magazines and e-books’

Mashable.com reports on the hosting services available in the market at the present time – a list of free and paid web hosting to choose from according to your particular needs; check out this insightful article entitled ‘Web Hosting Toolbox: 130+ Resources for your Web Hosting Needs’

You can also find practical and straight to the point answers to many other commonly asked questions about going digital, downloading our free guide ‘7Common Questions about going Digital Answered by 3D Issue’ and visiting our FAQs section.

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Which are the top Smartphone platforms to be considered in the digital market place at the present time? The mobile devices platform has become increasingly important for digital publishing purposes– particularly the Smartphone has gained an outstanding position as one of the preferred devices. This blog will reveal the main players in the Smartphone platform based on an updated statistics reported by comScore as can be seen in the graph below:

According to Techcrunch.com, one of the highlights in this report is that Apple has once more reclaimed its position as one of the strongest players in the US smartphones market thanks to the increasing number of subscriber on a monthly basis ‘During the three-month period covering November 2012 to February 2013, Apple added 8.9 million new iPhone subscribers – Apple’s share of the total smartphone subscriber base  grew to 38.9 percent from 35 percent’. Techcrunch.com explains that ComScore’s figures also shows that Apple remains in leadership in terms of Smartphone manufacturers.

The success of Apple is considered by some experts as a reward for the strong performance of the iPhone 5; and the company efforts to engage users with innovative product offerings seem to have worked well.

Interested to provide your readers with accessibility to your digital editions in Smartphones?

3D Issue allows the creation digital editions for desktops, laptops, mobile devices and tablets; as well as Apps for iPhone, iPad and Android. Attend an online demonstration to view each of the step involved in the creation of a digital magazine for a range of platforms including mobile devices.  You can also get more information on e-magazines for Smartphones through our blog posts:

Why HTML5 Magazine Publishing Industry Leaders publish for Mobile

Digital magazine advertising: performance on mobile devices higher than desktops

Market Share in Smartphones and what it means for Digital Magazine Publishers

If you have any comments or ideas, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

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One of the highlights in the digital publishing sector is the increasing number of free Apps available for consumers. Are free Apps defining the future of print and digital publishing? Our blog today, we will take a look at some of the reasons why free Apps are rising in popularity.

According to this article ‘Some iPad Apps are so good you cannot believe they are still free; likewise, the price of some of the best iPhone apps can be as low as 59p. The fact that an engaging product is offered at no cost – meaning risk free is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why readers are keen to try free Apps.

What kind of free Apps are popular in the publishing sector?

This report lists some of the best free Apps in the books category available for iPad users:

-       Kindle from Amazon: ‘The most comprehensive reading app and an essential download. Kindle App has the best library of literature to choose from, cross platform support and great choice of fonts and ways to read’

-       iBooks from Apple: ‘Made with the typical level of Apple polish; easy to use and compatible with your own PDF and ePub files, so your reading material doesn’t have to come from Apple’.

-       Me Books:  ‘A brilliant app that enables you to take old picture books and make them new again with interactive features. Listen to famous voices read out stories and other favourites, or record your own voiceovers and sound effects, and choose where to tap to activate them – it’s all completely customisable’

Free Apps can certainly attract the digital audience as they can freely access their topics of interest; but will they define the future of print and digital publishing? This will depend on the developers’ ability to provide a high quality standard, performance and functionality at no cost – will this be feasible? Only time will tell if free Apps can really live up to the end readers’ expectations.

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The e-Book sector has been the recipient of many positive developments in recent years. Publishers; however, have been placing some restrictions on e-Book library lending. According to this report some well-known publishers such as Random House, HarperCollins, Macmillan and Simon & Schuster have placed restrictions on e-Book library lending:

•  Random House allows its e-Books to be available to libraries, but at prices that are much higher than retail prices

•  HarperCollins allow for books to be checked 26 times before a new copy has to be bought

•  Macmillan is running a scheme, with a two-year trial that allows 1,200 older e-Books to be available to libraries

•  Simon & Schuster do not make e-Books available to any libraries

Nevertheless, a promising step has been taken by one of the most important publishers globally. This article reports that ‘Penguin has recently decided to make e-Books available to lend once again’. In 2010, Penguin decided to stop offering e-Books to libraries ‘citing its concerns regarding the security of digital editions’, as a result; this decision might come as a surprise to many publishers.

…So what factors have influenced the comeback of Penguin in this sector?

In the words of penguin’s VP of online sales and marketing ‘After careful examination of  pilot programs, the company is ready to take the next step and offer what consumers and libraries have been asking for, thus fulfilling its mission to bring new writers to readers’.

The article explains that Penguin allows each eBook to be lent to a person at a time, and the following year the library has to buy a copy of the eBook – the prices are the same as any retail price.

Will this decision opened up new opportunities for writers and satisfy the needs of readers to access their favorite book through this platform? As an offering to the book lovers; this move has the potential to further increase the popularity of e-Books as a trend and promote new writers. For more information on this increasingly popular platform, download our free guide: 5 Mistakes to avoid when writing an e-book

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Online publication can provide with the necessary tools to create a digital edition that reflects a company accurately. In this blog we will take a look at some tips to customize the skin of the interface for the end readers through the features available in the 3D Issue software.

In what ways can customization benefit your company?

Online publication allows you to make the skin and the background of your digital magazine look and feel like your own company’s publication – adding your branding, colours and logo and as a result increase your brand recognition.

In the 3D Issue software, you will find all the customization options in the appearance section. These are some of the features available in the appearance section:

1.  Background: There are several options available for background: Custom, None, Wooden floor, Concrete. If you select Custom and the 3 dots, you can select any colour for the background or you might have an image that represents the company

2.  Preloader: Our latest version also allow you to have a custom pre-loader so you can have your own logo appear at the start of the issue loading rather than the default 3D Issue preloader

3.  The intro area: This area immediately to the left of the front cover is a prime space. You have 3 options here: Disable, Default or Custom. If you select Custom, you can open up your own intro file – this could be any image, a feature advert, a special offer or new product of the company

4.  Top banner: The top banner will run along the top of your edition and allows you to upload a number of images –to add advertising. For more information, check out this video tutorial: Integrating advertising into your digital editions.

The customization features allow you to put your stamp in your digital edition and communicate a consistent message to the end readers in both: print and digital publications. For a step by step guide check out our video tutorials: Customizing the skin

You can also check out our video tutorials for a step by step guide:

Two of the lesser spotted features in 3D Issue

Top tips for beginners of digital publishing software

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In our blog today, we will discuss 3 mistakes to avoid in digital publishing:

- Lack of Vision: A key ingredient for success is a clear vision; your steps in digital publishing must be guided by your short/medium and long term objectives. Starting a digital edition with a vision of what you intend to achieve and a clear course of action can lead you in the right direction.

- Lack of Information: It is vital to get information about your target readers’ needs and the current digital publishing sector from trustworthy sources. A good understanding of your end readers’ topics of interests, preferred devices and needs is the foundation to creating an engaging content. Likewise, it is relevant to identify the new trends in digital publishing, the most suitable output formats and platforms as well as the latest developments, which can enhance your digital edition.

- Lack of Commitment: A commitment to work on your digital project is vital to reach the target readers and keep on improving the performance of your digital editions. As a result, establish a strategy to assess the effectiveness of your digital publication and make changes accordingly. 3D Issue provides you with the opportunity to integrate Analytics in your digital editions to track the performance of your publication. Check out this blog for more information: Tracking magazine analytics and digital publishing success and watch our video tutorial- ‘Analytic Explained’ in the Spotlight Features section for step by step guide. Introducing new features regularly and providing end readers with the opportunity to voice their opinions on your digital edition are part of the commitment to keep on improving. It is also important to work closely with a committed team of colleagues or friends to keep your eyes focus on your vision!

Download our free guide 50 Ultimate Digital Edition Tips and Tricks for new ideas to enhance your e-magazine.

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Going digital can open up a whole new world of opportunities to reaching a wide audience – online or offline and creating publications suitable for multi device viewing.

Which are the main elements to take into account when designing a magazine for multi-device consumers?

This article entitled ‘Inside Dujour: Designing for a Multi-Device Age’ provides us with a key point to be considered when creating publications for multi device viewing. This article explains that DuJour magazine ‘was released simultaneously in print, online, and for mobile, social and email platforms and its website was optimized for tablet and smartphone reading from inception’.

According to this article one of the key elements DuJour took into consideration was the design aspect:

* Design the kind of content that suits different platforms: ‘DuJour’s design is both original and refreshingly streamlined – meant to be read on a tablet. Likewise, visitors can choose to peruse content in HTML5 or flip through a digital replica of the print product’

* Keep the design consistent and optimize for different platforms: ‘DuJour’s magazine uses hotspot buttons on images at a specific size so that readers can interact with them on mobile while not obscuring the image during regular viewing’.

* Convey your intended message through your design: DuJour’s magazine uses particular colours, photography and fonts to project a sophisticated and elegant image; appropriate for all devices

* Complement the print product: DuJour’s digital magazine was designed to complement the print product. The whole project is integrated to communicate the same message consistently. DuJour looks and feels cohesive across platforms.

Providing access to publications regardless of the device or technology being used is gaining more relevance in the publishing sector at the present time. So, why not try a software solution that will let you create publications for multi device viewing. 3D Issue can allow you to do just that; simply by selecting the formats in the Output tab and building your publication. For a step by step guide, attend an online demonstration to view the process of creation and download our free trial version to test the content of your own publication in multi devices.

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Our blog today deals with some of the most recent developments in the mobile and tablet sectors. Mashable.com reports on the latest launches from some well-known companies. The first one is from ASUSTeK Computer Incorporated (ASUS) – a Taiwan-based multinational company; introducing the transforming concept through its PadFone Infinity, a 5-inch smartphone that turns into a tablet when plugged into its 10.1-inch dock. According to this article ‘Asus upgrades the specs of both the tablet and the smartphone component to new heights’. The product can certainly provide both practicality and novelty at a price of £799 ($1,209), although; the date of availability has not been officially announced yet.

Mashable.com also reports that HP (Hewlett-Packard Company - an American multinational information technology corporation) is launching the Slate 7 Tablet to focus on what the company considers as the most promising market: the mid-sized tablet space. The company is approaching the market with an aggressive pricing strategy – $169.99 in the U.S and providing users with a premium build experience through its features including Beats Audio speakers, a micro-USB port, a soft-touch rubber back and two cameras.

Apple is also starting production on the next iPhone according to reports. The Wall street Journal claims that the phone will look and feel similar to Apple’s iPhone 5 and is working on a lower-cost iPhone.

As the mobile and tablet sector keep on developing, we can expect to see new features added to the current product offering at a lower price; which can potentially open up new channels to reach the digital readers and increase distribution in this  steadily growing platform.

For more information on new developments, check out these blog posts:

•  News this week from the HTML 5 publishing sector

•  A look at Flip page software to create a HTML5 Flip book

•  Get to grips with the future HTML5 digital publishing now

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Do you need to clarify some doubts about going digital? Our free e-book: 7 Common Questions about Going Digital – Answered by 3D Issue can provide you with straight to the point and practical answers to the most common questions on going digital; focusing on the 3D Issue software as an illustration of the steps involved in the digital journey.

Find out what going digital really means by exploring every step involved in the process and ensuring to take the right steps by getting useful answers to the following  key questions:

- How to start?

- How does it work?

- How will readers access the publications I create?

- What are the requirements?

- How much will it cost to the company?

- Is it profitable?

- Can results be assessed?

Download our free e-Book ‘7 Common Questions about Going Digital – Answered by 3D Issue’ today to get vital information on digital publishing and make the most from this opportunity to reach the ever growing digital audience through an engaging digital edition.

For more information on going digital, check out these blog posts:

- Why are marketers moving to digital editions?

- Are you a publisher thinking about going digital?

- Creating a digital magazine for the first time?

- Creating a great online magazine

- 3 Easy steps to create an online magazine

If you have any comments or queries, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

Why is HTML5 digital publishing so important? If you are considering this platform for your next projects, this blog can provide you with practical answers to 3 of the most common concerns about HTML5 iPad and its implications.

1. How to get started: You can simply use the existing PDF of your publication or design a PDF taking into consideration the following:

- The content: Ensure the content of your digital edition suits this platform – take into account the space available and use straight to the point information with relevant links for more information

- Take into consideration that Apple does not support Flash – use an image as a background so your end readers do not realize that they are missing the flash feature in your digital editions

- Integrate this platform with other platforms currently used so that every channel can be a part of the overall objective of the company

2. How to optimize publications for iPad: An effective way to optimize your digital publication for iPad is providing accessible content to your end readers on the move via apps. With 3D Issue, you can simply select the iPhone/iPad App format in the output tab to allow your end readers download the issue to the 3D Issue App when they view your publication from their iPad. For more information, visit our Features section and watch our video tutorial ‘Creating an App for iPhone and iPad’ in the spotlight features section.

3. What can be expected in the future for HTML5 digital publishing?

The current trends indicate a promising future for HTML5 digital publishing as the platform grows in popularity; its potential to reach a wider audience as well as the profitability factor are also on the rise. For more information on the future for HTML5 publishing, check out these blog posts:

PDF to digital magazine for iPads, iPhone and Android devices

Rolling Stone magazine gets an iPad edition

Is your digital magazine available on ipad?

You can also get our free e-book entitled ‘Beginners Guide to HTML5 Digital Publishing for iPad’ to get all the answers you are searching for.

Which tools can be used to reach the target audience more effectively?

Digital publishing provides you with a wide range of highly effective tools; one of them is the e-brochure – a vital component in your online marketing plan!

When creating your e-brochure, take into account the following points:

- User experience must be at the heart of your e-brochure: Make the most from the rich media features available in digital publishing and add videos, audio clips, flash animations, and web/e-mail links to provide your end readers with a unique digital experience. For more information, check out this blog post entitled ‘Create an interactive digital magazine: tips on rich media features to enhance your e-magazine’

- Evaluate the performance of your e-brochure:  Making positive changes is one of the key elements in the successful implementation of your online marketing, as a result; focus on establishing tactics to assess the impact of your e-brochure by :

•  Getting feedback from your end readers

•  Tracking your e-brochure performance via Analytics

- Integrate all the tools used in your online marketing: As your e-brochure is a component of your marketing plan, ensure that all the other components used in your online strategy complement each other. Your digital publications should be a projection of your company and all the tools used should communicate the same message to the end readers.

With 3D Issue you can personalized your e-brochure by customizing the background, using your logo or text, colors or brand and in this way allowing the creation of  an e-brochure, which is a part of your overall online marketing plan. Become familiar with each of the steps involved in the creation of an e-brochure by attending a live demonstration and let us know about your particular digital publishing needs at customerservices@3dissue.com

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Which industry sectors lead in the adoption of the digital brochure as a marketing tool?

According to the latest reports, the leisure and tourism industries are championing the digital brochure. This article indicates that the tourist sector has made significant efforts to introduce digital technologies in order to promote its offerings in a more engaging way. Thus, an iPhone App and e-Brochure were produced to promote beaches in Kent last summer.

What is the main objective to introduce digital technologies in this sector?

The report asserts the ‘beaches and bays guide’ main goal is to promote the area via new technology to engage whole new generation of potential visitors. In the words of the local councillor ‘The app and e-brochure have no geographical boundaries, so their potential is enormous’

The article explains that the App and e-brochure will offer the following:

- Maps and information about beaches

- Descriptions and details about facilities at each beach as well as a map and a list of things to do, such as sailing, surfing and trips

- Information on beach safety and advice on the top seaside places for family fun are also included.

The app can be downloaded free and the e-brochure accessed through the council’s website.

Can you identify more efficient ways to reach your target audience?

Digital publishing can allow you to produce different kinds of publications – and the digital brochure has certainly a great potential for different industry sectors. Consider the benefits of reaching a wider audience through an e-Brochure – the interactive features available can facilitate the creation of a digital brochure that stands out among the rest!  For more information on digital brochures, download our free e-Book entitled ‘Marketer’s Guide to creating interactive brochures’ and check out this blog post on a ‘Step by step guide in how to create digital brochures’.

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The aim of this blog is to have a look at 3 smart insights into new digital marketing campaigns.  Forbes.com reports on some the most relevant aspects to be considered when planning digital marketing campaigns.

The article reports that the main characteristic of successful e-commerce websites is ‘An innate ability to quickly define customer expectations then exceed them by delivering excellent experiences’. At the heart of any campaign, including digital ones should be the best interest of the target audience as a main focus – delight the customer and earn their trust.

This article based on Gartner’s report  – Market Insight: Three Compelling Reasons to Update Your E-Commerce Product Strategy can provide with insightful information on the most relevant marketing elements to be considered for marketing campaigns.

•  The top four priorities of CRM programs are enhancing the customer experience (40.2%), increasing the acquisition of new customers (34.8%), increasing sales revenue (32.9%) and increasing customer satisfaction (31.9%)

•  For e-commerce strategies to deliver these results mobile, social, globalization, cloud and legacy order management systems all need to be well-integrated and galvanized around a common set of objectives and analytics to measure results.

•  One of the most overlooked areas of e-commerce strategies today is aligning ERP strategies to the specific, unique cultural needs of a given market – e-commerce strategies must pay attention to cultural differences.

As a result, we can conclude that it is vital to reshape the marketing strategies used by companies to incorporate new elements which are currently becoming more relevant for the target market based on its particular characteristics, needs and wants and use the digital tools available to respond proactively.  For more information on marketing opportunities, download our free guide ‘The ultimate Social Media Marketing Guide for Digital Publishers’.

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How can publishers ensure success in online publishing in the digital age?

 Our e-book entitled ‘Introducing Online Publishing in the Digital Age’ can lead your digital journey and ensure the fulfilment of you objectives through an insightful panorama of the sector and the most relevant aspects to be taken into account when creating an effective digital edition. Thus, ‘Introducing Online Publishing in the Digital Age’ can provide you with key information on the following points:

•  Digital vs. Print

•  Is going digital the right move?

•  First steps in digital publishing

•  New medium = new opportunities!

•  How to assess progress?

•  Tips to reach full potential

•  What can be expected in the future for digital publishing?

Download our e-Book today to find out more about the potential to be discovered in online publishing and most importantly become familiar with the requirements for success. Your first vital steps in digital publishing can be enlightened with a step by step guide to fulfilling some relevant objectives:

•  Identifying the potential and challenges of the sector

•  Establishing a realistic course of action – a marketing plan

•  Recognizing the potential in the sector and making the most from the new opportunities

•  Implementing techniques to assess your progress objectively

•  Establishing tactics to keep improving the performance of  your digital editions to reach your prospective readers according to objectives

Download our trial version and experience the amazing technological advances through online publishing in the digital age! Check out our video tutorial section to learn more about the different features available to enhance your digital editions and feel free to e-mail us at customerservices@3dissue.com to clarify any doubts.

Which is the best digital publishing format?  The ideal digital publishing format for your e-Magazine is the one that serves best to fulfil your purpose. So, before taking the important decision of choosing one; take some time to research, test and assess the digital publishing formats available.

•  Research your target audience: Identify the required features to satisfy readers’ needs and establish the digital publishing format that will work best accordingly. For instance, if you need to add graphics or rich media elements, then an online publication will suit better or if you need to create a traditional heavy book, the e-Reader format is the most appropriate.

•  Test your chosen formats:  Keep your audience’s need at heart and test the different formats available objectively. Work with a team to analyse results and identify the pros and cons in selecting the format.

•  Assess regularly: After selecting a digital publishing format, it is vital to evaluate regularly the performance of your digital publication according to your objectives. Establish tactics to get feedbacks from your end readers to find out if the selected format is having the desired impact and work persistently to improve your offering. Explore new options to add the necessary elements to engage your end readers more effectively.

Choosing the right format requires time investment to get information on the different options available – a worthwhile investment! Check out this insightful blog post on ‘A summary of e-Publishing formats’ and download our free e-Book to get more information on tips to create the right digital format for your audience and make the most from your digital publication – 10 Best Practices for Creating Online Magazines. You can also attend a live demonstration to watch our team create an online magazine – you will also have the opportunity to ask questions to clarify any doubts.

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Are you searching for innovative ways to enhance your digital editions? – Then you don’t want to miss the 3 new Apps from 3D Issue to satisfy the digital readers’ need to access e-Magazines at their convenience.

1.    The iOS (iPhone/iPad) App: The 3D Issue magazine App enables you to create Apps for your readers on iPad and iPhone – holding the contents of your publication and in this way you don’t need to submit to the Apple Store or go for approval. Some of the greatest benefits provided via the iOS App is online and offline accessibility to your digital editions as well as the potential to increase your distribution; reaching a wider audience.

Download our free e-book ‘BEGINNERS GUIDE TO CREATING MAGAZINE APPS FOR IPAD AND IPHONE’  for more information on the key aspects to be considered when creating Magazine Apps for iOS.

2.    Android App: The 3D Issue App is also available for viewing magazines on Android devices via Google Play. In this way, when your end readers view a 3D Issue magazine from an Android device, they can now download the issue to the 3D Issue app, allowing for offline viewing, and ease of access to your publications. Respond proactively to the mobile revolution by optimizing your digital editions for this platform to reach a growing audience.

3.    Facebook App: Facebook has become of the most effective channels to increase the distribution of digital publications.  Make the most of this opportunity to optimize your digital editions for the Facebook audience – creating a 3D Issue Facebook App to provide accessibility to your digital publication without leaving your Facebook page!

Check out our features section for detailed information on the 3D Issue Magazine Apps and watch video tutorials for a step by step guide to create Apps for your digital magazine. If you have any queries or comments, please drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com

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Through our blog today we will discuss the profitability factor in the digital publishing sector – Are e-Publishers making more online revenue?

In order to analyse the possibilities to generate revenue in the digital publishing sector, we will take a look at some of the opportunities available to monetize content. Mashable.com reports that ‘News organizations have been experimenting with ways to monetize their social media presence through diverse marketing efforts. Two approaches used by news organizations to generate online revenue are Real Time Ads and Revenue Share.

- Real Time Ads:  ‘Customized widgets pull messages from an advertiser’s Twitter, Facebook or YouTube accounts – local businesses can buy the widget space for a specified amount of time and are able to update the content, making each message timely and perfect for a daily deal or promotion’.

Forbes.com asserts that the beauty of Real – Time Ads is the fact that they are created on the fly and ran immediately capturing the essence of the moment. This article also explains that ‘marketers and agencies often ignore an advantage that active websites can provide–particularly social services such as Twitter and Facebook–share with live television: the ability to reach a lot of people with a message that’s relevant to them right now’.

- Revenue Share allows organisations the opportunity to sell ads across a network of blogs and share a fixed percentage of revenue with advertisers. YouTube offers possibilities for revenue sharing such as AdSense where ‘publishers can have promoted videos run on their pages’ as well as sharing revenue with the original publishers.

Online advertising and social networks have huge potentials for e-Publishers to generate more profit. With 3D Issue, you can integrate publicity in your digital editions. Check out this video tutorial entitled ‘Integrating publicity into your digital editions’ for more information.

Can e-Publishers make more online revenue? – Using a magazine software that allows the integration of  publicity and sharing via social networks; the answer is a resounding ‘yes’ – Download our trial version for 30 days and check out the results you can get.

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Which road leads to success in Digital Magazine Publishing?

Our new e-book entitled ‘10 Tips for Beginners in Digital Magazine Publishing’ can provide you with key aspects to be considered in the creation of a successful digital edition. Nowadays, it is essential to identify the most relevant aspects of the digital publishing sector to make the most of this powerful channel to reach a wider audience.  A good understanding on the sector – its requirements, the benefits as well as the challenges;  can certainly be the right place to start your digital journey!

In our free guide, we provide you with expert advice to ensure you have the right foundation to fulfil your objectives through a highly effective digital magazine. Our 10 top tips include:

1. Become familiar with your digital audience

2. Be aware of the latest trends in digital publishing

3. Identify the benefits and challenges of going digital

4. Establish your marketing plan

5. Optimize your content for different platforms

7. Make the most of the distribution channels available

8. Evaluate the performance

9. Tips to revamp your digital e-magazine!

10. Monetize your digital e-magazine

Starting a new project can be challenging and uncertain; as a result, invest your time getting information from trustworthy sources to make the right decisions and focus on the most important elements to create your dream e-magazine.

‘10 Tips for Beginners in Digital Publishing’ can provide you with a clear panorama of the current digital publishing sector in order to establish a course of action that leads to success and allows you to reach your full potential through the continuous improvement of your digital magazine.

If you planning to go digital or even of you have been publishing digital publications for years, this guide can a great source of information to inspire your future digital projects – Download our free e-book today! And let us about the projects you have in mind for your e-magazine at customerservices@3dissue.com

One of the most popular and promising platforms is without doubt the HTML5 publishing sector. Thus, this platform can allow publishers to reach a wide audience – accessing digital publications via mobile devices and tablets. Currently, it is increasingly important to provide your readers with accessibility in their preferred devices and trends show that ‘the mobile buzz’ is here and will probably keep on gaining popularity as new developments in the sector unfold to amaze users.

In our blog today, we will talk about the launch of Samsung’s new smartphone and its relevance in the HTML5 publishing sector.

What are the key features of Samsung’s Galaxy S4?

According to this article from bbc.co.uk the new smartphone can provide users with some outstanding features such as:

•  Eye-tracking: The smartphone allows users to control its 5in (12.5cm) screen using only their eyes

•  Using “Smart pause” the user can pause a video by looking away from the screen

•  The “Smart Scroll” software analyses both the user’s eyes and wrist to scroll through emails and other content

•  The ability to take two different pictures at once

The article asserts that the new smartphone will be available for the public in April. Only time will tell if this innovative offering will win the hearts of consumers; if successful it will certainly mean that digital editions for smartphones must capture the attention – ‘the eyes’ of readers more than ever!

The developments in the HTML5 publishing sector can bring about new opportunities to reach your target and prospects readers. As a result, it is essential to gain more understanding on the sector’s potential – Download our free guide entitled ‘Beginners Guide To HTML5 Digital Publishing for iPad’ for a step by step guide. If you have any queries or comments, drop us an email at customerservices@3dissue.com

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It is worth to invest your time seeking to get the best results from your online catalog software! In fact, you can expect great rewards if you are committed to work on techniques to provide your readers with a unique digital experience.

How can you create an online catalog that stands out among the rest?

One of the greatest benefits provided by digital publishing is the possibility to use interactive features such as:

•  Video clips showing the highlighted features of your products

•  Audio clips to further explain particular features or provide entertainment

•  Web links to relevant pages for more information

You can expect to find all of these interactive features and even more in the 3D Issue online catalog software! Thus, 3D Issue also provides you with a great tool to ensure your readers with a quick access to your digital catalog – The Load Control feature allows you to specify a number of pages to load at one time and in this way ensure that the loading process does not take a long time. Check out this blog post for more information.

What kind of benefits can you expect by creating a digital catalog?

There are many advantages you can get; some of them are:

•  The opportunity to reach a wider audience

•  The prospect to expand internationally

•  The possibility to increase your profit and leverage your marketing efforts

The latest digital publishing trends indicate that more and more companies are launching their online catalogs. In order to clarify any doubts on the creation of an online catalog, download our trial version and attend a live demonstration for a step by step guide – you will be amazed at how simple and easy the process of creation can be! If you have any queries or comments, drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com.

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Sharing e-Magazines plays a vital part in the successful implementation of a company’s marketing strategy. Currently, there is a wide range of possibilities to share your e-Magazine in the social networks.

In what ways can sharing digital editions benefit your business?

Sharing your e–magazine can be a great tool to increase distribution, improve your brand awareness and build up your relationship with your readers. Reaching the digital audience effectively depends on your approach to spread your intended message using the most suitable channels. A good knowledge of your target group is vital to select the sharing platform/s with the highest potential to achieve your goals.

Currently, one of the most promising platforms for sharing is YouTube as reported by Mashable.com. Thus, in the past few years YouTube has become increasingly popular in different segments including people of different ages, nationalities and lifestyles. This article reports that YouTube has recently launched its new design for channels called YouTube One Channel (available only as limited beta, to all users).

What is the YouTube One Channel?

Mashable.com explains that the YouTube One channel can provide users with the possibility to:

- Have a video trailer which starts playing for all visitors who are not yet subscribed to the channel

- Organize their channel videos and playlists better, having more control over what content subscribers see when they click on their channel

- Create videos that will look good on any screen size and any device

Nowadays, sharing your e-magazine can be as easy as sharing a song or video by choosing the right channels and using a software solution that provides you with sharing options. 3D Issue allows you to share your e-magazine in social networks as well as creating a magazine app for Facebook. To get more information on sharing via social networks, download our free guide ‘The Ultimate social Media Marketing Guide for Digital Publishers’.

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When researching on the most appropriate e-Magazine software to create digital publications, some terms used for advertisement purposes could cause confusion. One of the most frequently asked question is – What is the difference between web magazine software and page turn software?  In reality, both terms are commonly used to describe a software solution for digital publishing.  In other words, both terms -web magazine software and page turn software can essentially perform the same task.

Which elements can make a real difference in a digital magazine?

The success of a digital publication lies beyond the software solution; there are some vital points to take into account to ensure a brilliant future. Forbes.com asserts that ‘Publishers must take true ownership of their digital brands, regain the direct relationship with their customers and figure out how to increase revenues by putting the reader at the heart of their strategy’

Here are some tips on how to create a readers’ centred e-magazine:

- Identify your readers’ needs as this is the foundation for an engaging magazine content

- Research your audience regularly via a range of channels: surveys, interviews and comment options in your publication

- Provide new content of interest to capture your readers’ attention on a regular basis

Forbes.com reports that ‘Publishers must consider new ways for readers to consume – and connect around – magazine content’. According to this article, publishers need to focus on the following:

- Design and track content experiences that are more socially driven

- Build new direct channels of engagement and extend the touch points of readers with content and each other

- Take control of their three D’s – Data, Development and ultimately their Destiny.

As a result, it is essential to establish a plan of action to create the kind of content, which can engage your target audience; your web magazine or page turn software will do the rest once you have the right foundation to create an outstanding digital publication.

In the past few years, it has become increasingly relevant to be able to view your digital magazines on a variety of touchscreen devices. Thus, readers have adopted the new habit of consuming information via tablets and mobile devices and the trend has been growing steadily according to experts. Mashable.com asserts the ‘The Touchscreen technology is nearly a staple feature in mobile devices’

What is the touchscreen technology?

The touchscreen technology is described by Mashable.com as ‘a resistive design, made of several layers, responsive to touch of a finger or stylus – unlike a capacitive screen’

Mashable.com reports that the touchscreen technology has been used in several ways:  ATM machines, GPS systems, cash registers, medical monitors, game consoles, computers, phones and continues to appear in newer technologies. The technology, however; became more useful and commercially available to a widespread audience with the introduction of the iPhone by Apple.

Who developed the touchscreen?

Some people believe that the touchscreen was developed by Apple in the late 2000s – with the launch of the iPhone. However, the touchscreen has been around for nearly half a century. Mashable.com reports that ‘E.A. Johnson is believed to be the first to develop the touchscreen in 1965. The tablet was patented in 1969 and was used for air traffic control until about 1995’

The touchscreen technology has a fascinating history of constant innovation to provide users with great performance and functionality – Screens have become more receptive to touch and gestures.

If you are considering the possibility to publish your digital magazines in the mobile devices and tablets platforms; make sure to test your own content in touchscreen devices and explore this promising option. A great way to do this is by viewing your own content in touchscreen devices – so why not download our trial version to see results and clarify any doubts!

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Join in the latest trend and release tablet editions of your publication with magazine software! In our blog section, we have discussed the growing tablet trend and its potential to reach a wide audience. Through our blog today, we will take a look at the example of a particular company joining in the tablet buzz and the company’s strategy to integrate different platforms.

Three months ago, Flipboard magazine announced that is now available for large-format Android tablets (7 inches or larger including Samsung’s Galaxy Tab series and Google’s Nexus 10) according to a report from Mashable .com.

Why have they decided to go this road?

According to the head of international development at Flipboard, Eric Alexander ‘The move was inspired by the accelerated adoption of Android tablets over the past few months’

What stages have the company taken before introducing its tablet version?

Flipboard has been strategically expanding to reach users in a variety of platforms.

-        Social Networks: ‘Its magazine-style app displays feeds from major social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as professional content producers like Vanity Fair and The New York Times’

-       Mobile devices and tablets: ‘The company has also released an edition for Android Smartphones and smaller tablets like the Kindle Fire’

-       The addition of e-book and audio to its discovery catalog and the launch of several international editions

To conclude, this case indicates the relevance of providing your users with accessibility to your digital publication in the most popular platforms. Planning your move is vital as a successful integration must be carefully analysed to fulfil the company’s objectives.

3D Issue magazine software allows you to create editions for your audience in different platforms including mobile devices and tablets. For more information download our free guide ‘Beginners Guide to HTML5 Digital Publishing for iPad’. You can also download a free guide to create magazine apps for iPad and iPhone

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Which do readers prefer ……digital or print magazines?

Our latest infographic entitled ‘Electronic Magazine vs Print infographic’ can provide you with relevant information to answer this dilemma.

Most publishers are faced with the challenge of choosing the best course of action to reach their target audience – providing readers with the traditional print or exploring the digital publishing.

Our latest Infographic is based on findings from a study by ComScore Inc., a leader in measuring the digital world’s performance. The salient findings indicate that readers in general have a common ground – Everyone loves reading magazines!

This infographic also highlights the following key information:

-       The readers’ behaviour towards reading digital and print magazines

-       The readers’ preferences based on age

-       The digital readers’ preferences regarding the platforms used to access a publication

An essential ingredient of success is a good knowledge of your target audience, visit our trends and statistics section to access relevant articles on the publishing sector. Share this infographic with your followers simply by adding it to your site or blog and spread the promising news on the publishing sector. Enjoy!

In our blog today we will take a look at a great tool available in the 3D software to enrich your flip magazine and reach your global audience. With 3D Issue you have the possibility to change the language of all the buttons and text displayed in the reader interface and rollovers – The software is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Korean.

What kind of benefits can this tool provide?

- It helps you connect with your audience in their own language and in this way build up your relationship with them.

- It provides your readers with the opportunity to select the language/s they prefer

- It helps new users to get a clear instruction on readers’ tool and important messages throughout your publication

- It reassures readers that you have their needs at heart and this can encourage them to communicate with you via e-mails or comment options in their own language

Creating digital publications in multiple languages can be done following a simple procedure. Reach your global audience more effectively and expand your horizons creating an outstanding flip magazine in your target audience’s language! For more information, check out this interesting blog post on ‘Creating digital brochures in multiple languages’ and drop us an e-mail at customerservices@3dissue.com for queries, comments or ideas.